Wienk CharolaisRanch Legacy
Excellence. Integrity. Tradition. Since 1958.
Excellence. Integrity. Tradition. Since 1958.
five generations of dedication to strengthening your herd.
For more than 65 years, Wienk Charolais has been shaping the Charolais breed in South Dakota, across the U.S., and around the world. What began with one bull purchase in 1958 has grown into one of the nation’s longest-running Charolais operations, now five generations strong.
Our Story
Beginnings
1958
Arnold Wienk purchased his first Charolais bull sight unseen from Litton Charolais in Missouri. That same year, he married Carol Casper, starting both a family and a ranching legacy.
Beginnings
Early Advocacy
1960s
From forming the Upper Midwest Charolais Association to petitioning the South Dakota State Fair for a Charolais show, Arnold and Carol helped introduce and establish the breed across the region.
Early Advocacy
Growth & Leadership
1970s–80s
The Wienk family introduced AI, embryo transfer, and hosted their first ranch sale, while Arnold served as AICA President. Their commitment to calving ease, soundness, and disposition helped set breed standards.
Growth & Leadership
Today & Generations Forward
2000s
The family expanded with Jeff & Jody, then Sterling & Courtney joining the ranch. Wienk Charolais continues to lead through DNA research, bull sales, and a legacy of community service and breed leadership.
Today & Generations Forward
Our Philosophy
-
Excellence
in genetics, customer service, and herd management.
-
Integrity
in doing what’s right for both the cattle and the people who trust us.
-
Tradition
that spans five generations, shaping the future while honoring the past.
Our Family
Arnold & Carol Wienk
Founders, advocates, and Hall of Fame inductees for decades of breed leadership.
Jeff & Jody Eschenbaum & Sons
Partners since 1985, continuing the ranching tradition.
Sterling & Courtney Eschenbaum
Third generation to carry the program forward with vision and care. Their children are Ryker, Landry, and Laramie.
Stetson & Maesa Eschenbaum
Ty Eschenbaum
Honors & Recognitions
From Seedstock Producer of the Year to induction into the AICA Hall of Fame, the Wienk and Eschenbaum families have been recognized locally, nationally, and internationally for advancing Charolais cattle and supporting the beef industry.
For more than 65 years, Wienk Charolais has been shaping the Charolais breed in South Dakota, across the U.S., and around the world. What began with one bull purchase in 1958 has grown into one of the nation’s longest-running Charolais operations, now five generations strong.
Our Story
Beginnings
1958
Arnold Wienk purchased his first Charolais bull sight unseen from Litton Charolais in Missouri. That same year, he married Carol Casper, starting both a family and a ranching legacy.
Early Advocacy
1960s
From forming the Upper Midwest Charolais Association to petitioning the South Dakota State Fair for a Charolais show, Arnold and Carol helped introduce and establish the breed across the region.
Growth & Leadership
1970s–80s
The Wienk family introduced AI, embryo transfer, and hosted their first ranch sale, while Arnold served as AICA President. Their commitment to calving ease, soundness, and disposition helped set breed standards.
Today & Generations Forward
2000s
The family expanded with Jeff & Jody, then Sterling & Courtney joining the ranch. Wienk Charolais continues to lead through DNA research, bull sales, and a legacy of community service and breed leadership.
Our Philosophy
Excellence
in genetics, customer service, and herd management.
Integrity
in doing what’s right for both the cattle and the people who trust us.
Tradition
that spans five generations, shaping the future while honoring the past.
Our Family
Arnold & Carol Wienk
Founders, advocates, and Hall of Fame inductees for decades of breed leadership.
Jeff & Jody Eschenbaum & Sons
Partners since 1985, continuing the ranching tradition.
Sterling & Courtney Eschenbaum
Third generation to carry the program forward with vision and care. Their children are Ryker, Landry, and Laramie.
Stetson & Maesa Eschenbaum
Ty Eschenbaum
Honors & Recognitions
From Seedstock Producer of the Year to induction into the AICA Hall of Fame, the Wienk and Eschenbaum families have been recognized locally, nationally, and internationally for advancing Charolais cattle and supporting the beef industry.

